We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lauren Maines a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lauren, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?

The events of the last two years have required most businesses to pivot. It was no different for “What’s Wine Is Yours”. Prior to the pandemic, my business was focused on wine appreciation by creating unforgettable and unique tasting events. Wine is a vessel for bringing people together. It unites us on a level that is greater than we can possibly fathom. When people are gathered with wine, memories are made. It might be the aromas and flavors in the glass, the fellowship around us, or the occasion for which the bottle was opened that create priceless memories. When the pandemic hit, our ability to gather and create memories was stolen from us. Personally, this was very difficult for me because being included in the creation of lasting memories is a privilege that I never take for granted. So, I had to take a long hard look at my wine glass and change my thinking. My glass was not half empty-it has always been half full! I had to pivot and as a result I started the “What’s Wine Is Yours Wine Club”! I personally taste and curate wines that match the taste preferences of my clients, all while working within their budget. It is not a “one size fits all” club-it is all customizable. It has given me the opportunity to bring the joy of wine to people around the country!

Lauren, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I created “What’s Wine Is Yours” to emphasize wine appreciate by creating unforgettable and unique tasting events. I focus on history, stories, and personal experiences that captivate guests and offer newfound appreciation for the wine that is in your glass. Each tasting (public, private, or corporate) is completely unique to the host and event. Are you interested in a tasting designed around my favorite love story of all time between two grapes? How about learning how to describe wine with words you use to describe fashion? What about learning the skills associated with blind tasting? The list of memorable options goes on… I am also trained in the art of Sabrage! Sabrage is the elegant and renown art of slicing off the top of a Champagne bottle with a sword. Nothing says, “WOW!” like opening a bottle of bubbles with a sword. My heart is full when I have the opportunity to celebrate and engagement, toast a Bride and Groom at their wedding reception, commemorate a milestone celebration, or perform this dramatic ceremony at a dinner party.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to learn to stop comparing myself and my business to others out there. This has been a very difficult process, one that I am still attempting to conquer. It is very easy to get wrapped up in what others are doing, and that is detrimental to your growth and success. There are two quotes that have helped me in my quest to focus on my journey: “Try not to get lost in comparing yourself to others. Discover your gifts and let them shine” and “Comparison kills creativity. Nobody can do it with YOUR voice, YOUR experience, YOUR insight.”

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

The most important avenue for building, growing, and fostering loyalty has always been through creating personal relationships with my clients. Every single Tasting Event, Sabrage Ceremony, and Wine Club delivery that results in the creation of a memory is the result of an established relationship. I want you to have an emotional connection with the wine that is in your glass. I do that by learning about your taste preferences, your history with wine, and how wine is intertwined with your life. Wine is not just fermented grape juice. I want to bring the history, majesty, and mystique of wine to everyone who attends a tasting or is receiving a personalized wine club delivery.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.WhatWineIsYours.net
• Instagram: What’s Wine Is Yours

Image Credits
Photography by Desiree